Arma Blanca

Contraction of 'mi hijito,' itself the diminutive of 'mi hijo.' Used by parents, grandparents, or older relatives. The diminutive '-ito' adds warmth. Can also be used by older people toward younger people who are not their children, conveying affection or slight condescension depending on context.

Extremely common in Mexican and Mexican-American speech. The spelling 'wey' also appears. When used to address a friend it is neutral or warm; when used to describe a third party it can be dismissive. Tone and context determine the exact shade.

Common in Mexican and Mexican-American speech. Literally 'boss' or 'chief,' but when a son or daughter uses it to address their mother it is completely affectionate. Also used literally for a female boss in a workplace.

Standard casual greeting or inquiry in Mexican and Mexican-American Spanish. Can be a greeting ('qué onda, ¿cómo estás?') or a genuine question asking what is happening in a situation.

Literally 'a large fire' or 'stove burner,' but used in Mexican street slang to mean a gun or firearm. Learners familiar with only the standard meaning will be confused when the word appears in a crime context.